Instant Analysis: Stars of the Alabama Baseball Sweep
TUSCALOOSA, Ala.- The No. 19 Alabama Crimson Tide baseball team swept the Manhattan College Jaspers in its opening weekend, winning the series finale 11-8 on Sunday afternoon.
Previously, the Crimson Tide recorded two consecutive shutouts to take the series, 4-0 on Friday and 15-0 on Saturday.
Multiple players had strong outings over the weekend. Here are the stars of the sweep.
TJ McCants
The Ole Miss transfer made a statement over the weekend. He had six hits in his 12 total at-bats including three doubles and a home run. He also stole three bases, drew two walks, and accounted for five runs.
Justin Lebron
The freshman had a strong collegiate debut, appearing in all three games. In six total at-bats, Lebron recorded four hits, 3 runs batted in, drew one walk, and accounted for two runs. He also recorded the Crimson Tide’s first home run of the season with an inside the park home run on Sunday afternoon.
Ben Hess
After missing almost a year with an injury, right-handed pitcher Ben Hess made his debut on Opening Day. The junior struck out nine batters, walked one, and allowed one hit in his four innings pitched. Alabama baseball head coach Rob Vaughn confirmed in the post-game press conference that Hess was on a pitch count.
Mac Guscette
The starting catcher and one of the few veterans returning from last season had a stellar Saturday. He appeared in two of the three games over the weekend, recording three hits, four runs batted in, and accounting for two of Alabama’s runs.
Will Hodo
As well as Guscette, Hodo was one of the few returning veterans to this Crimson Tide team and he made a difference in the Tide’s success, mostly during Sunday’s game. In total, he had three runs batted in, three hits including one home run, one drawn walk, and accounted for four Alabama runs.
